Elio Vittorini's Significance

Elio Vittorini holds a major position in 20th-century Italian literature thanks to both his narrative production and his activity as editor and militant intellectual.

Purpose of the Work

This work aims to present the English-speaking reader with a comprehensive study of the author, his times and his work.

Focus Areas

Particular attention has been paid to the interconnection between Vittorini's work as a fiction writer and his political commitment which saw him move from revolutionary fascism to communism, to independent left-wing militancy.

Research and Re-Appraisal

The combination of extensive archival research with a re-appraisal of his fiction and of his editorial activity provides a full picture reaching beyond the traditional restricted view of Vittorini as the anti-fascist author of Conversazione in Sicilia.